hybrids
|hy-brid|
/ˈhaɪ.brɪdz/
(hybrid)
mixture of different elements
Etymology
'hybrid' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'hybrida', where it meant 'a mongrel or offspring of mixed parentage.'
'hybrida' entered English usage (via early modern Latin) as 'hybrid' in the 17th century and was used to refer to mixed-breed animals; the term later broadened to cover botanical crosses, machines combining technologies, and figurative mixtures.
Initially it meant 'offspring of mixed parentage' (often used of animals); over time it expanded to mean any product of mixed origin or combination, and later also specialized senses (e.g., hybrid vehicles).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an offspring produced by crossing parents of different species, varieties, or breeds; a crossbreed.
Plant breeders developed several hybrids that are resistant to drought.
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Noun 2
a vehicle or machine that combines two different power sources or technologies (e.g., an electric motor plus an internal combustion engine).
Many commuters now drive hybrids to reduce fuel costs.
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Noun 3
something made by combining elements from different origins; a mixture or combination.
The band's latest album features hybrids of electronic and acoustic sounds.
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Adjective 1
made by combining two different things; of mixed origin or composition.
Engineers tested hybrid materials, and the resulting hybrids performed well under stress.
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Last updated: 2025/12/11 14:45